Do Penis Pumps Work?
October 22, 2020
4 mins
Medications to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) almost exclusively require a prescription. Viagra, Cialis, and Levitra are popular brands for medications that treat ED. These medications are FDA-approved to treat erectile dysfunction.
Penis pumps are a more accessible treatment option for ED. However, there are some risks associated with this type of ED treatment.
What is a Penis Pump?
Penis pumps (also known as vacuum pumps or vacuum erection devices) increase blood flow to your penis to help you achieve an erection strong enough for sex. The device can also be used in conjunction with ED medications like Cialis and Viagra. Contrary to assumption, penis pumps do not make your penis bigger.
They're easier to buy and sometimes cheaper than traditional prescription medications.
What are the parts of a penis pump?
Penis pumps work by creating negative pressure to increase blood flow and expand penile tissue. As air or water is drawn out of the vacuum tube, all parts of the penis expand to fill this vacant space.
A penis pump is made of a generally cylindrical vacuum tube (where the action happens) and a pump. The vacuum tube is placed over the flaccid penis and the user applies a vacuum device (manual or electric) to produce an erection. Some pumps have a manual squeeze ball or hand pump, while others have a battery-operated pump built in.
Once the user has an erection, they remove the pump. Some guys use a constriction ring at the base of the penis to help maintain blood flow to the penis and maintain an erection.
How Effective Are Penis Pumps?
One study of older men found that over 96% of them maintained an erection with the device. Some partners also reported better sexual intimacy after using a penis pump. When using a penis pump, be sure to follow the instructions on the label and any directions from your healthcare provider.
One of the most important things to look for in a penis pump is a quick-release safety mechanism. This is a small switch through which you can rapidly release the pressure device's air for quick removal. Some penis pumps also have a vacuum limiter so that it never builds up too much negative pressure.
What Are the Risks of Using a Penis Pump?
Over-pressurizing a penis pump may lead to priapism or bleeding under the surface of the skin. Priaprism is an erection that lasts long after sexual intercourse. Most vacuum pumps are designed to draw a vacuum of less than 17 inches of mercury.
Some penis pumps will recommend the use of a constriction ring at the base of the penis to help keep blood in the penis during a vacuum-induced erection. Never leave a constriction ring on for more than 30 minutes. Some devices may be made with potentially harmful chemicals. Look for devices that are phthalate and BPA-free.
What Different Kinds of Penis Pumps Exist?
Penis pumps are available in a wide array of styles and functionality. The most affordable penis pumps are air pumps that use a manual hand-squeeze vacuum process. More elaborate devices work with an automated battery-operated pump.
Some pumps require water for the vacuum process. They're typically more expensive than air models and more time-consuming. They're typically used in the shower.
How Rex MD Can Help
Whether erectile dysfunction is a new issue for you or you've been dealing with symptoms for years, prescription medications or penis pumps can help improve your symptoms. Rex MD offers access to ED medications like tadalafil and sildenafil.
Get started today with finding an ED medication that works best for you.
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